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ABSTRACT Biophysics is an interdisciplinary pursuit requiring researchers with knowledge and skills in several areas. Optical instruments and computers are fundamental tools in biophysics research to collect and analyze data. We developed a 1-semester Optical Engineering Laboratory course to teach image processing, optical engineering, and research skills to undergraduate students majoring in biology and biochemistry. With the use of development systems on students' laptops and in the cloud, students learned image processing with Python and OpenCV. Each student constructed a microprocessor-based lensless holographic microscope, gaining hands-on experience with optical engineering. The class culminated in original, student-designed research projects. All lectures, hands-on labs, and student research projects were performed both in person and remotely, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Open-Ended Inquiry into Zebrafish Nerve Development Using Image Analysis
Open-ended laboratory projects increase student success and retention in the sciences. However, developing organismal-based research projects is a challenge for students with restricted laboratory access, such as those attending courses remotely. Here I describe the use of image analysis of zebrafish neural development for authentic research projects in an introductory biology laboratory course. Zebrafish are a vertebrate model that produce large numbers of externally and rapidly developing embryos. Because zebrafish larvae are transparent, fluorescent reporters marking nervous system structures can be imaged over time and analyzed by undergraduate scientists. In the pilot of this project, remote first-year college students independently developed biological questions based on an image collection comparing zebrafish mutants and wild-type siblings. Students created and mastered techniques to analyze position, organization, and other morphological features of developing neurons and glia in the images to directly test their biological questions. At the end of the course, students communicated their project results in journal article format and oral presentations. Students were able to hone skills in organismal observation and data collection while studying remotely, and they reported excitement at applying lecture-based knowledge to their own independent questions. This module can be adapted by other instructors for both students on- and off-campus to teach principles of neural development, data collection, data analysis, and scientific communication.
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- Award ID(s):
- 1941664
- PAR ID:
- 10389418
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Journal of undergraduate neuroscience education
- Volume:
- 20
- Issue:
- 1
- ISSN:
- 1544-2896
- Page Range / eLocation ID:
- A73-A82
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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